The Braley Brief: Keeping in Touch

February 15, 2013

When I came to Congress in 2007, one of my most important goals was to keep Iowans informed about my work, how I vote on bills, and to keep the lines of communication open for everyone I represent. I want Iowans to have a clear understanding of how I do my job as a representative and the work I do for the people of the First District of Iowa. Each day, I make an effort to update Iowans on the daily goings on of Congress to make sure they know how legislation could affect them.

For congressmen and women just 15 years ago, reports back from the Capitol were normally seen only in forums such as this, in local newspapers or on the radio or television.

But today, in addition to our great Iowa local media and newspapers, I am able to give updates on a daily basis online. There are three major forms of online social media I frequently use that help me interact with my constituents and give you an idea of what I'm doing each day on Capitol Hill.

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Twitter and Facebook are two great tools that allow me to give you immediate updates about news in Congress and my work here in Iowa. Although I don't update every single moment of my life, these online tools give me the ability to 'update my status' and give you an idea of activities I participate in that are relevant to you. The people that join me in these online communities can comment and give feedback on their views, and can participate and communicate with me online.

I also have an official website it's a great place to get a hold of me or find out information about my work. You can also find out how to get in touch with my staff, who can help you with any problems you might be having with a federal agency, like a delay in veterans benefits or understanding Medicare paperwork. I also put out email newsletters that give information on specific topics you may be interested in you can sign up for this service on my website too.

I invite you to join me online. Hearing your viewpoints helps me do my job better, and I look forward to hearing from you. For more information, please visit the following sites: